17-year police veteran named Cedar Lake deputy chief

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CEDAR LAKE — Former Town Councilman Jerry Smith has been named deputy chief of the Cedar Lake Police Department.

The Town Council on Feb. 7 approved Smith to the post 6-0 following the recommendation of new Police Chief Randall Mayersky. Councilman Robert Carnahan was absent.

“I think this is a great move. We work well together,” Smith said.

The 17-year-veteran of the Cedar Lake Police Department currently serves as the DARE officer and will continue to do so along with the added responsibilities of deputy chief. He is also the department’s liaison to the Crown Point schools and an Indiana school safety instructor. He also will continue to take the lead on community relations.

Smith will continue his work in the patrol division serving as a “floater,” filling in for officers who may be on vacation or medical leave in an effort to minimize disruption to the department when someone is out.

Mayersky and Smith have a long history and have worked as partners in the past.

Mayersky said a couple of officers were being considered for the post, but ultimately the decision was made to place Smith.

“We seem to both have the same goals,” Mayersky said.

Smith, who also was a candidate for the police chief position, said he looks forward to working with Mayersky to implement some changes in the police department as the new administration moves forward.

“The morale of the guys is up, you can feel it. It’s all starting to gel,” Smith said.

Smith will receive about a bump in pay of about $1,600 a year to take the post.